What does it take to build a cybersecurity program that protects your institution without standing in the way of innovation?
Bedel Security Founder, President, and CEO Chris Bedel, CISM, recently joined Ridin' with The FinTech Cowboys,
to discuss his journey in community banking, the growing role of fractional cybersecurity leadership, and the importance of balancing security with innovation.
Drawing on his experience as a former community bank IT manager and information security officer, Chris shares his perspective on the challenges financial institutions face and how strong cybersecurity leadership can help them navigate an evolving threat landscape.
This conversation originally appeared on Ridin' with The FinTech Cowboys. Watch the original episode on YouTube.
Community financial institutions don't always have the resources or need for a full-time cybersecurity executive. That's where a virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO) can provide significant value.
Chris explains that effective fractional cybersecurity leadership goes beyond offering recommendations. A vCISO should work alongside the institution, understand its challenges, and take an active role in managing cybersecurity risk.
This partnership approach gives community banks access to experienced cybersecurity leadership while allowing them to focus on serving their customers and communities.
Cybersecurity threats will continue to evolve, and no single technology or solution can eliminate risk entirely.
Rather than searching for a silver bullet, Chris emphasizes two foundational elements of an effective cybersecurity program: strong leadership and repeatable, risk-based processes.
Together, these allow financial institutions to evaluate emerging threats, adapt to changing conditions, and make informed decisions over time.
As artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies reshape the financial services industry, institutions must balance innovation with responsible risk management.
Chris challenges the idea that avoiding new technology is necessarily the safest approach. Instead, he encourages financial institutions to explore emerging technologies, understand their risks, and incorporate appropriate security controls throughout the process.
Effective cybersecurity shouldn't simply tell an organization what it cannot do. It should help leadership understand how to pursue new opportunities responsibly.
As financial institutions increasingly rely on external technology providers and service partners, third-party risk management becomes even more critical.
Chris identifies third-party risk management as an area where the banking industry must continue to improve. Understanding vendor relationships, evaluating associated risks, and maintaining appropriate oversight are essential components of a comprehensive cybersecurity program.
Cybersecurity is not a one-time project or a challenge with a permanent solution. It requires ongoing leadership, thoughtful risk management, and a willingness to adapt.
At Bedel Security, we partner with community financial institutions to provide experienced cybersecurity leadership through our vCISO services. Our approach focuses on building sustainable cybersecurity programs that support institutional goals while managing evolving risks.
We would like to pay special tribute to Dave Mayo of the Fintech Cowboys, who left us earlier this year. He will forever be a legend in the community banking industry as one of its biggest champions. It was an honor and privilege to know him.